RANS Nusantara striker Ismael Salim Dunga has addressed his recent absence from the Harambee Stars squad.Dunga last received a call-up to the national team in 2021 while playing for Japanese side Sagan Tosu FC, but he did not feature in any matches.##NAJAVA_MECA_8419221##Some fans have called for the former FK Tirana striker’s inclusion in the squad to complement captain Michael Olunga in leading Kenya’s attack.The former Tusker FC player was also left out of the Harambee Stars squad for the first two Group J matches of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Namibia, even when Olunga was unavailable due to injury.Speaking exclusively to Mozzart Sport, the journeyman admitted that he is often surprised when overlooked by the national team, despite his strong performances at club level. However, he remains determined to continue working hard.”I can’t call myself up to the national team. All I can do is give my best, play my part, and leave the rest to God and the technical bench.””It’s every footballer’s dream and wish to play for their country. Sometimes I perform well and still don’t get called up, which surprises me. But all I can do is focus,” he stated.Former Shabana forward hoping red hot form at SamWest can earn him FKFPL returnThe former NAPSA Stars player also dismissed rumors that he has retired from international football, stating that he remains ready to serve the national team when called upon. He expressed surprise at fans who have even questioned his nationality on social media.”I am still open to the chance to play for Kenya again. Some fans have even asked me on social media if I’m still Kenyan. I confirm that I am Kenyan,” he added.Dunga’s RANS Nusantara is currently at the top of Group Two in Liga 2, Indonesia’s second tier, with the Kenyan striker scoring two goals since joining the club in September.Paul Ogai impressed with new backline at Darajani Gogo
